Nervous System

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2.12   Tumours – Tumours are abnormal growths that can cause severe brain damage. The real cause of a brain tumour is not known. The extent of the damage depends on its size and location. The brain cells surrounding the tumour are destroyed by the tumour’s constant growth. As the tumour grows, it also creates pressure which may damage other areas of the brain, or interfere with other normal functions of the brain.

2.13   Epilepsy – This is a disease that causes a person to fall unconscious. It is often accompanied by violent uncontrolled movements of the body. Our brain cells produce some electrical energy which travels through our nervous system and activates the muscles. When the brain of a patient is not able to limit or control the production of electrical energy, epileptic seizures occur. Fatigue and emotional stress can enhance the occurrence of epileptic seizures.

2.14   Mental Illness – Any disease of the mind that affects a person’s thoughts, feelings or behaviour is a mental illness. These illnesses lead to unhappiness and socially unacceptable behaviour. Some mental illnesses may occur from a physical cause, such as a birth defect, a disease, or an injury to the brain. Certain conditions in the environment also affect a person’s mental state. The imbalance of certain brain chemicals may cause mental illnesses. Sometimes it is hereditary.

2.15   Encephalitis – This is an inflammation of the brain. In most cases encephalitis results from a virus infection. Bacteria, harmful chemical, and various tiny parasites can also cause the disease.

2.16   Meningitis – This is a disease that affects the membranes covering the brain and spinal chord. People of all ages can become victims of this disease, but it most frequently strikes infants and children. Meningitis results from infection by bacteria, viruses, fungi or other microbes. Physically weak or unhealthy people are more prone to this disease.